I used to buy this a lot | Balvenie 12 Double Wood REVIEW

[@linhairstone2033]

Would love to see a video of the bottles that you have rated 90 points or better.

[@Gwhisky]

Oooh interesting!

[@alokrajan240]

@@GwhiskyPlease do it🙏

[@OhhhhhhhBugger]

Not "special", but a very smooth and good experience that has never once disappointed me, unlike most scotches that people seem to think are great and pay an arm and a leg for. For the price, I would actually give it a 92 out of 100. I guess everyone has their own taste.

[@Adrian_Pawel]

I second that!

[@Silphwave]

It got me into whisky nearly 10 years ago. The nostalgia alone brings me back to it, memoires flood back when I smell it.

[@canal-do-guga-namura]

I agree with your points but there's absolutely no way the GlenMorangie 10 is better than this. I had them both and there's no comparison. You should try them side by side, I'd be very surprised if you didn't change your mind (regarding this specific statement). Cheers!

[@Christian3174]

Great drop, thoroughly enjoyed this one

[@Hexagonal_Crank]

Saw it for $50CAD at Costco this week. And it is a straight up a $50 entry-level scotch. Once you move out of entry-level though, there’s not much reason to return to it.

[@Gwhisky]

That's roughly what I pay for it. It's not terrible for the price, but there are stronger options in that range. Forgettable stuff. Cheers! 🥃

[@a.ericschlobohm97]

Thank you Geoff for giving us Scotch drinkers another option to the Balvinie Double Wood.

[@olivertrumanjr9556]

This was my first scotch…3 days ago. Really loved it. Found it at the liquor store immediately after having it at the whiskey bar. I know it’s not perfect, but I’m just happy to have it on hand. It’s really different from bourbon (which I’m also new to). After doing some more research, I’m really excited to try a Islay whiskey. I’m a craft beer drinker and I’ll always love beer but I’m really trying to move away from all those extra calories

[@mwfielder]

I hear you and I don’t disagree as a whisky enthusiast. I will tell you it is a great whisky to bring new people into whisky. I have found many to really like it (including me as a new whisky drinker). Most new drinkers don’t relate to higher ABVs. I do think it tastes great, and I do prefer it to Cragganmore you mention at the 40 abv. I would put it below Aberlour 12 but above Glenlivet or Glenfiddich 12. Where we agree is that the rising cost of Balvenie 12 is starting to make me not automatically recommend it to the new drinker and lean more to the classic laddie.

[@Gwhisky]

I totally get why this works as an introduction. It worked for me! And you're right, there are worse options out there, but there are better ones too. A bit too average for me is all. Cheers! 🥃

[@eviltrain24]

I totally agree. I had 2 mini's as part of a 3-pack tasting set (x2). Didn't compel me to want this or the 14 year Caribbean cask. It was only the 17 year old that jumped up in quality for me. Unfortunately, I can't stomache the premium pricing strategy for any of those bottles.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I hear that Balvenie is getting way too overpriced in some markets. Bold of them, as most of their expressions are pretty average. Cheers. 🥃

[@DanYule55]

A lovely malt!

[@sunryse111]

I discovered Balvenie several years ago, when I first started my single malt adventure. I hated my first bottle, a 12-year old, but was tempted by the Double Wood, so I bought a bottle of that. Not impressed. In fact, I drank it with dry ginger. I am unlikely to buy any more and heartily endorse your opinion! 👍👍👍

[@Gwhisky]

Great minds, eh Victor? 🥃

[@hansvaneenennaam457]

Hi Geoff, totally agree on your verdict. Had one bottle years ago, and it was more or less ok. Nice one timer .... and moving on.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah pretty forgettable. Cheers Hans. 🥃

[@alehhandro1]

Spot on! I’m like you - I’ll drink it if someone pours it for me but wouldn’t spend my money on it.

[@bertko1710]

Nice new graphics there, love them, keep up the good work

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks buddy! Cheers! 🥃

[@peathead4450]

Boy, has that been long since I've had this one. Thanks Geoff for dining a light on this whisky. In my opinion a decent whisky for somewhere in the beginning of a whisky journey. When you've tried la lot of whiskies there's more to cherish in other expressions. On the caramel... yep, you can taste it. Possibly not in plain water or so, but I have tasted whiskies where I've tasted at least a hint of caramel... and if I do, I leave that whisky better to others. Slàinte mhath

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks! It's a flavour I pick up in a few whiskies that I feel have overdone it with the colourant, so I believe I can identify it quite easily now. But that will always be a bit of a controversial statement. Cheers buddy! 🥃

[@Paasken]

Really share your experience with it and agree with your reasons as to why. My friend served this to me just this weekend, and I was quite disappointed, even knowing the specs going in. Guess I just played myself. He did bring a Cask Islay so not all was lost 😅

[@Gwhisky]

We all end up with a dud in our hands once in a while. At least he redeemed himself with the Cask Islay! 🥃

[@s.alexiangardner1302]

This is where my journey into single malt scotch began years ago.

[@allenbt11]

Exactly right, back in the day this would have been the archetypical gateway dram for people just beginning to experiment in single malts, after coming over from supermarket grain blends. Its still relatively affordable in the my market ($60) but today, I'd look for the Balvenie 15, (even at $100) way ahead of this, if I was looking for the nostalgia of the Balvenie profile.

[@Gwhisky]

That Balvenie 15 Sherry is a beauty and definitely worth the price bump. Cheers! 🥃

[@barokluit]

Question for Jeff: What factors do you consider before you label a Scotch "entry level"? I'm assuming that price is part of the equation. Complexity, certainly. Age? ABV? Or what about NAS offerings? Your review of the Port Charlotte 10 in which you labeled it "entry level" prompted the question. I recently purchased my first bottle of that dram and was very impressed on all levels, from the first sip (neat) to the balance of the dram after adding 5ml of water. It was smoother when compared with the Tobermory 2004 -- 17 yrs I bought (for $200) for my last birthday. While I greatly enjoyed the latter, including some explosive elements in the mouth, I enjoyed the Port Charlotte 10 no less. (Same applied to my reaction to a Tamdhu Batch IV that I picked up a couple years ago.) Long extension on a simple question. I value your comments and insights and would appreciate reading your definition of "entry level".

[@Gwhisky]

I think you give me too much credit! I simply use the term to refer to whiskies that are under USD $50 in my market. These may be the informal starting point or introductory bottle to a brands lineup. Cheers!

[@tomtomtommyism]

one of the better UK supermarket whisky.... not that the competition is huge though............. but also of the more expensive ones... if this was £30 or less on offer like OP12/Stiuireadair/Glenmo10/Aberlour 12 etc.. it'd be acceptable but it's £42+ so can't justify getting another after trying it once.... have never explored the distillery beyond that (some of their expression sound very interesting / I'm sure I would love / but again seems always overpriced for the potential... )

[@robertmason2311]

OP12 is one of the very few 40% supermarket whiskies I would recommend to anyone.

[@Gwhisky]

If Cragganmore 12 is around at the supermarket, that'd be my go-to. I can't imagine that one would be too pricey.

[@tomtomtommyism]

​@@Gwhisky not available surprisingly..... .Talisker 10 for £30 will always be my go-to UK supermarket offer.. though it won't last long / might be over already even

[@WhiskyCanuck]

This was my gateway scotch whisky that got me into whisky. When it was $50CAD, it was a good price, but not it's almost $100CAD and it's just not worth it anymore. Also I think it's not as good as it used to be, it's weaker than it was 15 years ago when I first got into it. I think you can say the same for other Balvenie expressions. The 17 PortWood and 21 DoubleWood in particular - but the latter is largely because paxarette is banned & that was part of it until the 90s. I'm assuming that their sherry & port casks aren't the caliber of what they used to get. I guess not surprising since the near collapse of the sherry market.

[@adaml3135]

In MB this is now $139.99!!!

[@WhiskyCanuck]

@@adaml3135 I underestimated, I just checked & it's $119 now in Quebec where I am. Last time I'd looked at buying it (but didn't) it was I think $96.

[@Gwhisky]

Damn that's waaaay too much. This is why I stick to Wiser's/Lot 40 when I'm in Canada. 😂

[@masterdad-zf9po]

It went from $85 at the LCBO in summer this year to $140 about a month ago. The Doublewood used to be good (several decades ago). Or maybe my taste has changed. Likely both. But I’ll never buy it again. Not worth it anymore. The price|quality ratio is too low. Try Balvenie Week of Peat - expensive $250 ish/bottle) but in my view worth it.

[@davidowen2834]

Hi Geoff, think you said it all and rightly so. Had this in my early days and it was a decent price, but for an entry level malt now it’s way too expensive . On the E150a discussion it’s definitely a talking point that’s not going to end. Don’t think I’d be able to taste it (??🤔) my pallet isn’t that refined, but I won’t dispute someone who says they can. Slàinte Geoff , enjoyed the video.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks David. Yeah I believe it's a specific burnt caramel type flavour. But, yes, it's likely an argument the community will never completely agree on. At least we can agree that our money is better spent elsewhere! Cheers! 🥃

[@SaltyCuban]

@@Gwhisky the strongest burnt caramel flavor I ever got from a bottle was Prohibition Cutty Sark. …and I liked it. Go figure.

[@nitroxhockey7786]

"Smooth and easy" adjective is spot on. In HK it is expensive for what you get and there are better as you have mentioned.

[@Gwhisky]

That's true in most places, it seems. Cheers. 🥃

[@WLaidlaw]

Excellent review! This brand halted my interest in whisky for years for many of the reasons you mentioned! I would almost describe this as an "Airport" whisky that is readily available but not as good as you are anticipating when you buy it!

[@Gwhisky]

Airport whisky. Ouch! Hah.

[@rami26s1]

This is a bar whisky for me. However, I’m a HUGE fan of their 15 year olds (both the sherry and the bourbon single barrels). Some of my favorites.

[@Gwhisky]

Agree. Those single barrel releases were incredible. 🥃

[@CharlesOffdensen]

6:00 you can. There was a 2 years old brandy in Lidl, which was almost black in color. You can absolutely taste the e151. I don't know if you can taste in whisky. But it tastes BAD!

[@tinchin75]

Hi Geoff! I couldn't agree more with this review. I found Balvenie double wood truly disappointing. Also agree with your suggestions (Cragganmore, Glen Elgin 12, Glencadam, Arran...but not Glenmorangie 10, it's disappointing too). And last but not least, for an "81" score i really prefer Glenfarclas 105. Greetings from Argentina!

[@Gwhisky]

Great minds think alike! Cheers buddy! 🥃

[@deorai77]

I have questions too !! Who was that man with the sock? lol ❤❤😂😂 great review 👌👏

[@DileepB]

Nothing exciting is right with the 81 rating. I bought a bottle a while ago before I cared about the specs. Finished my bottle to make room for better whiskies on my shelf. Not buying a replacement bottle. On to integrity bottlings! Life is too short to drink "not bad" whiskies!

[@Gwhisky]

Well said. Average whisky won't do! 🥃

[@barrelvisor]

Good stuff again. I have an undeveloped pallet but appreciate your pov. One question, when drinking what glasses do you use? I have the standard Glancairn glasses, and the Bladerunner glass - wondered if I am missing a better set up to help enjoy my drams.

[@Gwhisky]

Personally I tend to stick to Glencairns and copitas myself. Cheers.

[@daveandrews5485]

This video blew my socks off…. The expression originated in the southern states of America and referred to defeating someone in a fight. Here endeth the lesson.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah good to know!

[@badgerjeff6081]

What an interesting review and comments. I recently revisited my bottle, which is about half full, and felt it fell flat. Definitely a "meh" moment. I remembered it tasting so much more interesting a year or two ago. I echo everyone's comments here that is doesn't hold up to other bottles.

[@Gwhisky]

Shame. Yeah I remember liking it much more way back when. Not convinced it's nostalgia. Cheers! 🥃

[@FabiusBR1]

Good review, Geoff. I drank Balvenie Doublewood quite a bit about 30 years ago. At that time it was considered innovative (ex-bourbon aged and Sherry finished was not common back then). I remember it being more interesting with more complex Sherry influence. My go-to whiskies were the Balvenie and Macallan 12 for drinking with friends and Glenmorangie 10 for an every-day sipper. Of the three, only the Glenmo has maintained its quality and value over the years. Macallan and Balvenie, sadly, are mere shadows of their former selves and not worth the premium price that they are charging now. So, your 81 score is appropriate, IMO.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I've had the chance to try a few single malts from the 90's and it's absurd how much the flavours and whiskies have changed since then. I have no doubt both Macallan and Balvenie were stunners back then. Cheers! 🥃

[@FabiusBR1]

@@Gwhisky Personally, I think you can blame Spain. Ever since they outlawed the shipping of Sherry in travel casks, the supply of casks that previously held high quality Sherry has dried up. Now, the casks are “seasoned” with Sherry that is destined to make vinegar. Fortunately, we have a few all-star Master Distillers today, like Billy Walker and Bill Lunsford, who are finding ways to work around the cask quality issues. Glenallachie 12 and Glendronach 12 today are as good as I remember Macallan 12 to be years ago (let’s hope Rachel Barrie keeps Glendronach quality where it is today). And, as I said above, Glenmorangie 10 is as good as I remember it. The LaSanta and Quinta Ruban are very good, also, IMO.

[@vaggelisstefanakis159]

I tried it recently and I totally agree with you. It is a fine whisky for inexperienced people or people seeking sweet and basic tasting notes but it is really far from special. Not worth the 60 euros which is the average price in Greece.

[@MusicHyde]

Hi Geoff, you mentioned "entry level" for this whisky, but the price is far from entry level (around 65-70€ here in France). I bought it 4-5 years ago at a decent 42€, it was definitely nice for the money, but up in the 65€ mark it's not entry level any more. I remember having liked it, but I was VERY new to whisky (which probably means it isn't very interesting/challenging). Also, the presentation here is really bad for the price, "only" 12 years, coloured, filtered and 40%, for 65€ ? No way. For the same price I'd rather get the Glenlivet 18.

[@justwhisky]

Totally agree with your assessment!

[@Gwhisky]

Great minds... Cheers John! 🥃

[@darkoanton5]

It's decent tasting but too pricey in my market and I think it one dram later in the evening gave me a headache the next morning. It cost almost double Glenfarclas 12.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah it's not worth double the Glenfarclas 12 for sure!

[@allanwhittle3041]

110% spot on review Mr G Like you I used to drink this back in the day , a lot of years ago I just bought another bottle over the festive season and after just one glass urggg, I can’t drink it , It’ll be given away . Very very poor IMO … I couldn’t agree more on your thoughts , every now and again …and again 🙈I drop a clanger and buy something which will never be drunk and must be gifted to some other ..lesser whisky nurd ASAP ..It’s C..p🤣👍

[@Gwhisky]

Hah well I was trying to be a bit more diplomatic than you, but I have to say you summed it up beautifully. And, yeah, sometimes we give bottles a second chance only to be disappointed all over again. The perils of exploring whisky! 🥃

[@robertmason2311]

Giving a bottle away without using the phrase: 'this is shite, here you might like it' 👍😂

[@darkoanton5]

I bought this around the same time I bought Dalwhinnie 15. I preferred the Dalwhinnie, but wouldn't purchase again either.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah yeah they're both exceptionally average.

[@cupid__angel__]

Here in Australia this whisky costs waaaaay too much. About $120 aud, similar price to Port Charlotte 10 and Glen Moray 18. Definitely pushes the "entry level" too far and I'll definitely not be buying it.

[@Gwhisky]

That's waaaaay too much. Hard pass! 🥃

[@ADSCP]

This was one of my first single malts and even as a beginner, I got bored with it and didn’t buy it again. I’m also not a big fan of Balvenie and the biggest disappointment I ever had with a whisky was with a Balvenie: the 21 year old portwood, with 40% ABV only, quite dull and with an outrageous price. So many Balvenie have a low ABV, wich is a pity. That’s why I bough a 12 year old single barrel first fill wich is 47,8% to see what a higher proof Balvenie can be. I have a bottle of the 14 year old Caribbean cask, wich is also a bit dull with a shy rum scent.

[@Gwhisky]

Funny I feel almost exactly the same about the Double Wood, the Caribbean Cask, and the Port 21. The 12 Single Barrel, while batches vary, is good stuff. The 15 SB Sherry is an absolute killer. Sometimes. Cheers! 🥃

[@yoursinsincerely39]

If it has to be Balvenie, let it be the beautiful 15, single cask. The14 Carribean cask is decent if we were to go for something very accessible. Also, yes, like you I too have tasted E150 in a lot of whiskies. I'm staying away. Not sure why accessible whiskies need to be diluted, colored and stripped off flavors. It is a bit like Indian food here in the USA. Whatever. Just got back from work and poured myself some Glengrant 12. Now that is a 12 worth talking about. Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

The 15 single cask varies in quality, but the better ones have been nothing short of exceptional. Couldn't agree more. I think you like the Caribbean Cask more than I do. I always found it a bit average myself. Glen Grant 12. I've had it, but not in ages. The 10 and the 15 come to mind. I should revisit the 12. Cheers buddy! 🥃

[@yoursinsincerely39]

@Gwhisky I think I might have brain damage. I had the glen turret 12, not glengrant. I had the 14 a long time ago and found it uninspiring but decent. Compared to doublewood at least. Balvenie can do great stuff if they want to. I followed up glenturret with the Edradour SFTC Sherry 2012,.56.9%. Lovely stuff. I strongly recommend it!

[@howardbecdove9780]

Well Geoff, that went pretty much the way I expected. Not a fan either. By contrast, I love their “Week of Peat”14yo. It has all the right specs too. It’s one of my favourite peated whiskies. A bit pricey though in my region, Otherwise I would always have it in stock.

[@Gwhisky]

Week of Peat is one I've been considering for a review, but it never quite makes it to the top of the wishlist. One to reconsider. Cheers! 🥃

[@andrewbutler7681]

"...so much snobbier"!! Ha, ha! I like to think I've been through that phase and come out the other side (but I may be deluding myself). What I do know is that I recently got an old-style Bunnahabhain 12 - 40%, chill-filtered and with e150a - from auction... and I prefer it to the modern 'integrity' version! At the moment, I have a Balvenie Signature, rather than the DoubleWood, but I have bought plenty of bottles over the years and may do again. (I also have 4 other Balvenies, but I'll leave them out of this.)

[@PSNeko]

crushable but for like 45€+ it should be more than crushable... cheers geoff!

[@Gwhisky]

Hah well said. Cheers! 🥃

[@bryanhumphrey4072]

At least here in America, it comes in at 43%. However, it is the Scotch I reach for when I don't want to put too much thought into what I am drinking.

[@Gwhisky]

I'm sure that extra 3% makes a difference. Pretty uneventful stuff at 40% imo. Cheers Bryan. 🥃

[@ytbenny1964]

Dear Balvenie (if you’re listening). It would take very little to make this an integrity bottling. You know what you need to do if you want it to fly off the shelves. A “competent” whisky means you have the foundation. Get to it Balvenie and I will spend my money on you.

[@yiorgosst6898]

Yeap! Same as I remember it 7 years ago. I am yet to try a good Balvenie to be honest.

[@Gwhisky]

The 15 Single Cask Sherry can be spectacular, depending on the batch. But yeah... they're often disappointing. 🥃

[@yiorgosst6898]

@@Gwhisky I will try that. Cheers

[@andyking894]

I wasn't terribly impressed with this one, either. Long story short, I ended up combining it with about half a bottle of Glenfiddich 14 (needed the shelf room), and it improved greatly. As for "blowing their socks off," this comes from the old naval practice of recovering bodies from sunken ships where they would fill them with air to float them to the surface for pickup. If they got carried away, they would overinflate them, and cause ruptures in the feet, thus "blowing" the socks off. Totally true, no faking, did not make this up, nope, nope! 😇🤣

[@Gwhisky]

😂😂😂

[@j.g.6601]

Agree wtih your assessment. It's poor value when the on the streets of Taiwan Oban 14, Clynelish 14, and Tamdhu 12 and are still available for less.

[@NicolasMD85]

Hahahaha, I'm looking at my unopened Balvenie 12 yo bottle at the shelf, and after this video, I wish to sell it immediately 😅

[@Gwhisky]

Oh damn! Hah! Well... maybe you'll like it more than me? 😬😂

[@NicolasMD85]

@Gwhisky Don't feel bad mate, perhaps I shall like it, since I've never had it before 😀

[@ursoouindio]

I had it on the begging of my journey and enjoyed. It was a random pick for me. I wouldn't buy again.

[@ironmantran]

100% Agreed ! -------- my last Balveneer was in 2003, with a single cask 15y for just 80$. 2008 was Financial Crash, and price even went UP ! ... Price is crazy now, too pretentious. 2023 sees 120$ for just 12y plain 40% in Ontario (one can get a Glenfarclas-15 46%, or Tullibardine-15 43% - or Speyburn-15 46% . . .). Sad, really.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I've heard a few other Canadians in the comments telling me this is never less than $120 over there. Absolutely absurd and not worth anything near that!

[@nohandle257]

Totally agree and it is horribly over priced. I bought one bottle before I knew what I was doing. Never again unless they up the ABV and stop filtering and coloring.

[@Gwhisky]

Well said!

[@trapperkcmo3460]

use a coffee filter and into the bottle. that would fix balvenie. that would fix most malts

[@redsox367]

This used to be my go to early on in my whisky drinking days, now I find it lackluster. Just checked what price it is selling in the UK currently and at £45 approx, no chance I would buy that.

[@Gwhisky]

Definitely better options out there for the price. Cheers. 🥃

[@stevengallery5561]

There's an idea for a Gwhisky video... Top 5 go to bottles that you don't now go to! 🤔

[@Gwhisky]

@@stevengallery5561 I like it!

[@jackthepickledhound]

This was a miss for me. I tried a dram at a bar and then was gifted a bottle. I'll get thru it eventually.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah yeah my bottle is going down slooooowly. 🥃

[@stevengallery5561]

Just a thought, but if we took a glass of water and added E150 to give it a golden hue.... would it still just taste like water? 🤔

[@Gwhisky]

I doubt it. That's something worth trying! 🥃

[@spelldorado22]

sorry ... i love the double wood ... always have a bottle on the shelf.

[@SaltyCuban]

Funny that I have never bought this for fear of what you say in the review. In the very beginning I thought it would be good. I was interested in the 17 yr. Then as years went on I saw the reviews … stayed away. And now I think I’ll officially cross this one off my to get list as well. I did buy the Caribbean cask. Many like that one and I didn’t like it much. So yeah I stay away from the brand. It happens . Off topic : rate these 5 in order of preference for you. Mortlach 16, Glenfarclas 15, Benromach 15, Benrinnes 15, Tamdhu 15.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I wasn't impressed with the Caribbean Cask myself, although plenty of people seem to like it. Those 15s... all bangers. Every one of them is good! 5. Glenfarclas 15. 4. Mortlach 16 3. Benrinnes 15 2. Tamdhu 15 1. Benromach 15

[@SaltyCuban]

@@Gwhisky interesting… Ok, if you could have a free dram everyday, of any sherried scotch under 21 yr old, for the rest of your life. Which one would it be? So far for me , not that I’d have one every day. It would be the old Glendronach 15 under B. Walker. That or the old 18. Best sherry “bombs” I’ve had to date. Of course there’s nuances between all sherried scotches and there may be days I’m in the mood for different ones. But I measure all by the standards set by those old Glendronachs.

[@aframs-cctaf-rams-cct6424]

I’ve only had the 14yr Caribbean one and I rated an 8.0

[@Gwhisky]

I found that one good, but not very special.

[@AskingForAFriend]

Ok. I’m sure you know that cheap whiskeys like Seagrams seven or Jack Daniels has a mediciney type of kick to it, right? So what whiskey is smooth, but without that nasty mediciney kick?

[@CameronWaldon]

Spot on with this one G! Boring, dull….. it’s just so very meh. I never really go to it on my shelf as a result. Pretty sure it’s the bourbon drinkers that give it all the love. Was given a second bottle for Christmas, dammit, there’s better options for the same price Mum, just ask me!

[@Gwhisky]

Hah. Beats a pair of socks, at least. 🥃

[@CameronWaldon]

Does it though?

[@michaelwood3203]

My oh my. A whisky created by own family, Theodore Wood the eldest. They were rogues and smugglers so they have some good points, but I can only apologize for their contribution to whisky making. There is also a rum side to the family.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah won't hold it against you. The Balvenie 15 sherry single cask makes up for it. 😉🥃

[@chrisgwhisky]

G, great review again. You nailed this one. It has no character and I completely agree about the flash of caramel/bitterness in the mid-palate. My sample is at 43% but hardly anything I would want a full bottle of.

[@dairyyang5457]

Indeed, Balvenie can be way better with decent presentation. Previously tried the Balvenie 21y PortWood 40%, both my friend and I thought it's a whisky "just for smelling".🤣🤣

[@Gwhisky]

I felt pretty much the same thing with the 21 Portwood. Nice smell but light flavours. What a waste at that abv! 🥃

[@gustavoayala8737]

Try the 12 Single Barrel next, in my neck of the woods the Balvenie 12 DW is 43%.

[@Gwhisky]

The 12 and 15 Single Barrels are good! 🥃

[@rainerkellers8377]

47,8% in my corner of the world.

[@alandiaz1041]

Similarly to you, I haven’t had the Doublewood in many years. It runs $70 here in the US (Florida) now. That’s just way too much for what this scotch delivers. However, it is 43% here in the states. The Doublewood is “good” (just a pinch north of decent). It’s definitely not memorable. If someone poured me one, yes, I would drink it. However, I have about zero percent desire to buy it again.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah that's pretty much how I feel. And yes... $70 is bold of them. Not worth it! 🥃

[@GeoffreyBangers]

This bottle was one that grabbed my attention early on because it looked fancy with the scripted writing and little barrels on it. It looked different than Glenmorangie and Glenfiddich, and I could get it everywhere. Now it's way too expensive for what you get in the bottle. I'm not going to buy another bottle again.

[@Gwhisky]

Same. It's overpriced and underwhelming. Better options out there for sure. Cheers buddy. 🥃

[@chefmarv6499]

3:15 when people see me stocking yet another bottle in the stash

[@Gwhisky]

😂😂😂

[@mormorgranat]

Yep, ended at the exact same analysis. Just meh and uninteresting but with some nice faint notes. Didn't know it back when I bought it, that part of it has to do with the low ABV. I've quit buying 40% at all now. Many of them taste almost the same, and I guess that's because they are so diluted.

[@Gwhisky]

That 6 extra percent can make all the difference! 🥃

[@bradl2636]

I think I have an unopened bottle in the back of my pantry.

[@Gwhisky]

😬

[@robertmason2311]

Fully agree with the review. Here in the UK this is readily available in supermarkets and priced a good £10/15 above other base bottlings and very rarely discounted. Because of this I had always assumed, without reading the specs that this was a decent whisky. Last year I see it discounted and grabbed 2 bottles, poured a dram and... nothing. A really boring and forgettable whisky and a perfect example of a whisky spoiled by crap presentation. Also: If a distillery can't get their base bottling right, then there is no way I am spending money on more expensive, better options from them.

[@robertmason2311]

Reading the other comments... it appears that I am the only one who still giggles at 'double wood' 👍

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah totally agree. Boring stuff, and not at all worth the asking price. Heh. Double Wood.

[@Bowman1999]

Don't have that much experience with Balvenie, I did go to a in store tasting one time and nothing really stood out for me. A friend of mine has a bottle of Balvenie Tun he is saving for his retirement hopefully he won't be disappointed. Have you ever reviewed any Kaiyo whisky?

[@Gwhisky]

The Tuns are a different story altogether. He'll likely be very happy with his buy. Kaiyo... haven't tried it yet. Always a bit hesitant about Japanese stuff. 🥃

[@Bowman1999]

@@Gwhisky I know what you mean about Japanese whisky still treading lightly. I keep trying to talk myself into buying a bottle of Nikka Yoichi but can't seem to do it.

[@Nikolay_Nikolov]

Hey, Geoff. Nice review although I wouldn't bother with that particular expression. I don't see how prefering well made and reasonably priced whisky is snobbery. 56 euros is the price of Balvenie 12 in Bulgaria. That price for an entry level, utterly castrated whisky is pure cynicism, IMHO. Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

Hah I was just kidding. One doesn't need to be a snob to pass on something like this. Not surprised it's of no interest to you. Average stuff. Cheers buddy! 🥃

[@jonathanbean7097]

how do you think this compares to the single barrel at 47. something %?

[@Gwhisky]

The Single Barrel is a huge step up from this. Beyond just the higher abv, the profile is completely different (and much better). 🥃

[@jonathanbean7097]

@@Gwhisky thanks!

[@players02]

The sigh earned you a "Like".

[@Gwhisky]

😂😂😂

[@DrinkWhat]

Finally, someone has spoken honestly about the problems with Balvenie whiskies in Taiwan: most of the products were overpriced and not matched the right quality for the price!

[@Gwhisky]

Agree. They aren't really worth it anymore. 🥃

[@clintondeabreu8565]

You were very generous on that score, this is a entry whisky at a premium so would be a 78-79 at best. Great review and bang on with your views.

[@dextercool]

Tried this in a bar once; found it very unremarkable and was bemused by its apparent popularity. However, a friend has a liking for The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14 year old and I found it more charming, effervescent and of interest.

[@Gwhisky]

The Caribbean Cask is decent, although I never loved it personally. But I certainly agree it's a step up in quality. 🥃

[@dj4tune4]

Hi Geoff, totally agree with you (again) on your thoughts and scoring of this whisky😉However, I was recently gifted a bottle from a friend, but to able to drink it, I had to add some more decent liquor to it... so I mixed it with Highland Park CS (1:4 ratio), thus I made my own blended malt, which made it more interesting and drinkable😂

[@Gwhisky]

That would definitely add some much needed weight and intensity. Good idea! 🥃

[@iancrombie8862]

Only £30 in certain supermarkets...not worth £45....

[@Boxer1250RT]

$80 in my area and clearly not worth it.

[@Gwhisky]

Agree. Definitely a pass for me at that price. 🥃

[@Holydecipher]

Worth buying check list: 40% ABV - Not worth Coloured - Not worth Filtered - Not worth All of the above? Not whisky by any strech of imagination. Rubbing alcohol at best.

[@alexandermitev5189]

completely agree with u on this one. Very bland. watery and disappointing whisky overall … So much that i havent touched any Balvinie since i had this bottle 3 years ago…

[@geofferzan-essien482]

This was one of my first bottles that helped get me into whisky. It’s a very easy drinker and perfect for a newbie and someone who is still trying learn the art of whisky tasting. Your palette is much more mature and experienced which this bottle certainly does not deliver. It’s definitely overpriced for what it is…

[@GeoffreyBangers]

Gotta agree with both Geoffs on this one. One of my go to bottles when I first started out, but now, I'd never pick up a bottle for myself or anyone else, for that matter. It's way overpriced and an example of a whiskey that gets by on brand recognition and distribution.

[@Gwhisky]

These Geoff guys talking sense...

[@TheReal_DeanD]

When Balvenie was reasonable priced and these were $55ish around my area I'd consider them. Now at $68 no thanks. Appreciate the honesty.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I don't know if I'd even pay $55 for this stuff. Just a bit too boring, really. Cheers Dean. 🥃

[@a.ericschlobohm97]

Intelligent, judgemental - that sometimes bleeds into a negative attitude and your strength is that your clear voice and opinion is whiney and well researched. Hey speedie, Please talk S L O W E R ! Or try some whiskey to find your zen.

[@Gwhisky]

Lol clearly I'm not the only one who's whiney and judgemental.

[@a.ericschlobohm97]

Nice try on the 'below the belt' icebreaker joke on your introduction.

[@Gwhisky]

I haven't had the Island Green, so I can't comment. 🥃

[@kevinma924]

Good to sniff, but underwhelming palate

[@Gwhisky]

Exactly! 🥃

[@lightplays2181]

Good , sweet and pleasnt whisky but i dont like 40% abv .Slainte !

[@Gwhisky]

Hah I think you give me too much credit. I simply refer to them as "entry-level" if they're roughly USD $50 or under. Usually these are the informal "introductory" whiskies to a brands lineup.

[@OdysseasK]

A little bit late on this video, don't know how it slipped through. I will 100% agree with the caramel part. You can most definitely taste it. Anyone who's curious can do this at home: just take a bit of sugar and a bit of water, boil it down until it's starting to smoke, and let it cool. Have one drop of the vile concoction you have just created so you get acquainted with it, and then pour a dram and add a drop or two... The effect it has is kind of terrifying

[@ConcaCon]

There are some whiskies that leave me utterly indifferent. This is one of them. For what it is, it's too expensive. Sub-80 for me.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah fair enough. Indifferent just doesn't cut it! 🥃

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

It's very well-branded, overpriced Blend-Filler, and not a very interesting one at that.

[@Gwhisky]

Can always count on your bluntness, buddy. 😂 And yeah.. totally agree. 🥃

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky It's a gift 😉 ...It also goes over real well with the ladies 😱

[@benjamintreitz1647]

You guys most stop being snobs. That's excellent Scotch at that price point. I'm sure y'all still spend tons for some Macallan.

[@Gwhisky]

If I don't agree with you I'm a snob who must be a Macallan investor? Lol sure.

[@benjamintreitz1647]

@@Gwhisky LMAO you also gotta know Balvenie 12 was my 1st love so I'll always have a soft spot for it

[@furuyashinichi3211]

My opinion. Getting way too expensive and somewhat light.

[@Gwhisky]

Pretty much! 🥃

[@furuyashinichi3211]

@@Gwhisky I believe it used to be much sweeter and thicker.

[@francescocruciani370]

81….. ok….

[@nicholaswoodward8191]

Its not bad by a long shot but imo its overpriced and a bit bland.

[@Gwhisky]

Sounds about right! 🥃

[@Rebel1972x]

Hic' 🤢 houuw ye d.. doing fellas? Hic!